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    BMW Recalls Cars and SUVs Due to Fire Risk

    A cooler leak on diesel models could melt the intake manifold

    BMW 328d engine Photo: BMW

    BMW is recalling certain diesel cars and SUVs from the 2013 to 2018 model years equipped with an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) module with an integrated cooler—a part of the emission-reduction equipment. The EGR cooler may leak internally, causing coolant to mix with diesel engine soot, which could result in smoldering particles, a melting intake manifold, and potentially fire, according to BMW.

    There are 50,404 vehicles involved in this action, including 3 Series, 5 Series, and 7 Series cars, and X3 and X5 SUVs. 

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    The driver may be alerted if the vehicle experiences this problem by a warning symbol in the instrument cluster displaying a loss of engine coolant, a reduction in engine power, an unpleasant odor (exhaust gas), an unusual noise from the engine compartment, and/or smoke from the engine compartment. Should any such symptoms appear, owners should contact their local dealership right away. 

    This recall includes all vehicles previously involved in recall 18V-755. Those vehicles will need to have the new remedy performed for this recall because that “recall component was not produced with sufficient long-term durability characteristics,” according to documentation filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

    BMW is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to this condition. 

    Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed Jan. 12, 2022.

    The Details

    Vehicles Recalled

    • 2013 to 2018 328d, 328d xDrive sedans
    • 2014 to 2018 328d Sports Wagon, 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
    • 2014 to 2016 535d, 535d xDrive sedans
    • 2015 740Ld xDrive sedans
    • 2015 to 2017 X3 xDrive28d SUV
    • 2014 to 2017 X5 xDrive35d SUV

    The problem: During vehicle operation, an internal coolant leak could start within the EGR cooler, causing the fluid to mix with normal diesel engine soot/sediment. In combination with high temperatures normally present in the EGR module, this might result in smoldering particles. This could lead to the melting of the intake manifold, and in rare cases result in a fire.

    The fix: Dealerships will replace the EGR cooler and inspect the intake manifold, replacing it as necessary, free of charge.

    How to contact the manufacturer: Owners may contact BMW customer service at 800-525-7417.

    NHTSA campaign number: 21V907000

    Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.

    If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have any open recalls. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly to see whether your vehicle has had a recall issued.

    Stay informed about recalls that might affect your vehicle by using our Car Recall Tracker. Create a free account now to become a CR member. 


    Jeff S. Bartlett

    Jeff S. Bartlett is the managing editor for the autos team at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2005. Previously, Jeff served as the online editorial director of Motor Trend for 11 years. Throughout his career, Jeff has driven thousands of cars, many on racetracks around the globe. Follow him on X: @JeffSBartlett